Today I celebrate another milestone on my path of recovery.
Six years ago today I walked into my first 12-step meeting and I haven’t looked back since. I’m celebrating being abstinent from compulsive overeating as well as being sober – two very big things! Looking back, I don’t think I would have willingly decided to do both on the same day, but it just worked out that way for me since I landed a food plan that had no sugar. No sugar = no alcohol.
On this date six years ago, I was nervous and excited. I was eager to try something new where my eating was concerned, but I had no real idea what I was getting myself into. In the following days, I would go through a horrible detox that kept me in bed with massive headaches, cold sweats, and bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. The withdrawals hit me hard. I don’t ever want to go through that again. And if I keep doing the same thing I’ve been doing the past six years – one day at a time – I won’t have to.
For the visuals among us, here’s a little photo trip down memory lane.
Almost 7 years ago, partying at Colleen’s family shore house:
A llittle over 6 years ago at my sister-in-law’s baby shower:
About 5 1/2 years ago, 4 months into my journey:
About 1 1/2 years ago with my friend, Deb:
And a more recent one, a couple months ago:
I need to take some updated pictures of myself. I’ve been slacking in that department for some reason! I got my hair done on Saturday and it looks fabulous. I’ll try to remember to do that this week.
Congratulations, girlfriend! I’m proud of you!
Woo hoo! Looking good!
Congratulations Amy! That’s something to really be proud of. Plus, you look FANTASTIC :)
Congratulations Amy! Keep up the fantastic work!
You look FABULOUS. Congratulations, Amy. You’re such an inspiration.
Amy, you are so amazing, and such an inspiration to so, so many people. Congratulations and continued success on all of your hard work and dedication. I know your path has had lots of trials and tests and adjustments and it will always be a work-in-progress, but your committment and results are outstanding. Happy 6-year anniversary!!
Amy, I’m so impressed with you — the pictures say it all. Not only have you released excess weight, your bright, beautiful being Light is shining through loud and clear! I can see it!
I’ve been wheat and sugar free for 4 years and 2 months and can attest to the fact that it’s been an incredible journey.
I’ve lost 100 pounds and feel terrific, too!
And, yeah, your hair does look fab in that last picture! : )
Smile and laugh, Donna
Amazing and Inspiring!
I’m so proud of you, I want to hug you!
You rock!
That is so awesome. Very inspiring!
And great hair too. :)
Wow, what an amazing transformation. You look fantastic and your happiness shines through. Congratulations!
Wow Amy .. that looks amazing. I need to start something myself and maybe should use you as insipration!
wow, amy. you don’t even look like the same person!
Amy -I came across your blog, and I must say, “you look marvelous”. congratulations and I hope you can maintain and keep a healthy and sober life.
I’m so proud of you. Look at your progress. You inspire me all the time!
How cool to read this post, and find myself standing there with you!!!!!
You’ve come so far, and I am so proud of you!
wow. you look amazing. what a huge achievement on so many levels!
Wow……and I was with you at the shore house!!! hehe
Anyway…..congrats and keep up the GREAT work!
Happy Birthday, sweet lady! (Sorry I missed it!) You are a shining light! :)
Amy, it has been an interesting read to say the least. I have 21 years sober, but still on food. I have been toying with the possibility that I have a food addiction for some time. I am still on the fence as it has not yet caused me any immediate harm. I am only about 25lbs over weight (I am 6′2, 270) so mildly overweight. My concern is more for my internal health. I don’t make the smartest food choices, lots of grease and fried foods. I don’t know where my journey will take me, but I will be reading your blog more! Congratulations!